Big Horn County, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,891
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,750/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,527
-0.1% year-over-year change

Big Horn County population

How many people live in Big Horn County

Big Horn County is home to 12,891 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Big Horn County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
12,891
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
6,335
Female
50.9%
6,556
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,335 49.1% -0.6%
Female 6,556 50.9% -0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Big Horn County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.4% are children under 15, then 16.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 21.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.4%
15 to 24
16.6%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
21.5%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,268 25.4% -3.9%
15 to 24 2,137 16.6% 2.6%
25 to 44 2,899 22.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 2,773 21.5% -0.9%
Over 65 1,814 14.1% 2.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Big Horn County, 99.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,782 99.2% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 55 0.4% 37.5%
Non-citizens 54 0.4% 86.2%
Racial breakdown
White
29.9%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
66.8%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
0.1%
Value Percent
White 3,851 29.9%
Black or African American 34 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 8,607 66.8%
Asian 25 0.2%
Two or more races 360 2.8%
Other 14 0.1%

Households in Big Horn County

A peek inside Big Horn County households

Big Horn County has 3,827 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.7% are families, while the remaining 31.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,827
3.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,199
Family households
2,628
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,199 31.3% 5.9%
Family households 2,628 68.7% 2.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Big Horn County

The housing landscape of Big Horn County

Big Horn County's housing consists of 4,527 units, with 69.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 19% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,527
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,136 69.3%
1 unit, attached 29 0.6%
2 units 181 4%
3 or 4 units 116 2.6%
5 to 9 units 86 1.9%
10 to 19 units 21 0.5%
20 to 49 units 98 2.2%
Mobile home 860 19%
Homes built since 2020
16
6.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Big Horn County

In Big Horn County, the median construction year is 1976. About 11.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 517 11.4% 14.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 253 5.6% -13.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 261 5.8% -31.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 675 14.9% 20.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 945 20.9% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 690 15.2% 13.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 545 12% -10.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 435 9.6% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 190 4.2% 11.8%
Built in 2020 or later 16 0.4% 6.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Big Horn County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,827 occupied housing units in Big Horn County, 66.7% are owner-occupied, while 33.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,827
3.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,274
Owner occupied
2,553
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,274 33.3% 8.7%
Owner occupied 2,553 66.7% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
15.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Big Horn County housing costs

Housing costs in Big Horn County come to a median of $606 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $697.

Median housing costs per month
$606/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Big Horn County
$697/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Big Horn County

Big Horn County education at a glance

About 46.4% of the population in Big Horn County went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 11.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 207 2.3% -15.5%
High school diploma 4,105 46.4% 10.8%
College diploma 2,137 24.2% 0.0%
Associate degree 1,006 11.4% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 981 11.1% -4.5%
Graduate degree 414 4.7% -31.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Big Horn County

How much people earn in Big Horn County

The average annual household income in Big Horn County was $73,453 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,750, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Big Horn County
$73,453/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Big Horn County
$58,750/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Big Horn County income by age

In Big Horn County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,873. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,192 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,138, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,401 in earnings. Overall, 78.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,138 -49.9%
25 - 44 $64,873 13.0%
45 - 64 $58,192 1.8%
Over 65 $57,401 4.3%
Above poverty level
9,770
Below poverty level
2,709
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,770 78.3% 1.4%
Below poverty level 2,709 21.7% -7.0%

Employment in Big Horn County

Workforce and job types in Big Horn County

The job market in Big Horn County is powered by 4,700 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 48% are employed by private companies, and 30.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,700
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
3,540
Blue collar
1,160
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,540 75.3% -5.0%
Blue collar 1,160 24.7% 13.3%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
48%
Governmental workers
30.6%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 510 10.8% -11.8%
Private companies 2,254 48% 6.3%
Governmental workers 1,440 30.6% -7.7%
Not for profit companies 496 10.6% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
13.2%
-5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Big Horn County stands at 13.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Big Horn County

How people get around in Big Horn County

Commuting methods vary: 83.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,832 83.6% -3.2%
Bus or trolleybus 3 0.1% -50.0%
Bicycle 2 0% N/A
Walk 246 5.4% 61.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Big Horn County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59010 220 89 $73,250 $140,330
59016 1,044 283 $58,750 $76,303
59022 2,307 507 $53,083 $52,039
59024 335 143 $78,125 $81,736
59025 53 36 $36,500 $45,725
59031 391 67 $0 $118,815
59034 5,008 1,853 $60,726 $81,061
59035 180 95 $51,726 $53,869
59038 750 333 $56,513 $72,280
59043 2,727 675 $29,028 $45,179

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FAQs about Big Horn County demographics 

What is the total population of Big Horn County?

Big Horn County has a total population of 12,891 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Big Horn County?

The gender ratio in Big Horn County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (6,335 residents)
  • 50.9% females (6,556 residents)

What is the median age in Big Horn County?

The median age in Big Horn County is 31.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Big Horn County?

The age distribution in Big Horn County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.4% (3,268 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.6% (2,137 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (2,899 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.5% (2,773 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (1,814 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Big Horn County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Big Horn County is as follows:
  • White: 29.9% (3,851 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (34 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 66.8% (8,607 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (25 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (360 residents)
  • Other: 0.1% (14 residents)

What percentage of the population in Big Horn County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.2% of the population in Big Horn County.

How many housing units are there in Big Horn County?

There are 4,527 housing units in Big Horn County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Big Horn County and what is the average household size?

Big Horn County has a total of 3,827 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Big Horn County?

Big Horn County has a median household income of $58,750, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Big Horn County?

The employment rate is 86.8% in Big Horn County, with a workforce of 4,700 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.3% (3,540 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.7% (1,160 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (510 residents)
  • Private companies: 48% (2,254 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.6% (1,440 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (496 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025